Masters and Webb criticize FIFA over Balogun red card decision

Sky Sports Football • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 5:04 PM

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Masters and Webb criticize FIFA over Balogun red card decision

Summary

English football officials Greg Masters and Howard Webb have publicly criticized FIFA regarding the decision that allowed Folarin Balogun to participate in the World Cup despite receiving a red card that should have led to a ban. Their remarks come after FIFA reversed its ruling that would have sidelined the USA striker. The controversy underscores ongoing tensions surrounding officiating decisions and tournament regulations. The future implications for player discipline and FIFA's decision-making processes are currently under scrutiny.

Source Links

Sky Sports Football

Key Details

•Masters and Webb express their concern over FIFA's U-turn.
•Folarin Balogun was allowed to play despite a red card.
•The incident occurred during the World Cup last month.
•Criticism focuses on the implications for player discipline.
•The situation may influence FIFA's future regulations.

What they're saying

"
Two of the most powerful men in English football have joined forces to hit out at FIFA and the U-turn which allowed USA striker Folarin Balogun to play on at the World Cup last month, despite the red card which should have led to an automatic ban.
— Sky Sports Football

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